Group laments ban on export of hibiscus flower

Members of the Association of Hibiscus Flower Exporters of Nigeria have lamented the ban placed on the export of hibiscus flower by its major importing country, Mexico.

They said that this action had crippled their businesses and led to massive job losses.

The President of the association, Mr Tunji Lawal, said hibiscus was a major income earner for Nigeria as Mexico accounted for more than 85 per cent of the import of the product from Nigeria.

Lawal added that within nine months, Nigeria had earned about $35m exporting 1,983 containers of the product to Mexico before the ban came as a result of some issues with the Mexican agencies.

While commending the efforts of the Nigerian Agricultural Quarantine Service for its role in ensuring the lifting of the ban, Lawal noted that “there was a need to bring to the public notice that the ban had not been lifted so that all the stakeholders and relevant agencies would intensify efforts.”

He said, “Although, there are concerted efforts by NAQS and other stakeholders to see that the ban is lifted, there is a need for us to correct the impression that the ban has been lifted.

“We are eager to commence export and take advantage of the support of the Federal Government in the area of agriculture as part of its diversification drive. Hibiscus farming is a great venture with potential to grow the economy and create jobs.” Copyright PUNCH. All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.